Legends unite!

Rugby league legends have united to form a dream team that will compete in Dubai for charity Joining Jack.

Last Updated: 07/11/12 10:10am

Rugby league legends have united to form a dream team that will compete in one of the world's premier rugby union events next month in Dubai in the veterans category. And while the players face the prospect of lacing up their boots again it is a more serious challenge that has brought this special team together.

The team has been invited to play in the competition on behalf of Joining Jack, a charity established by former Wigan Warriors player Andy Johnson and his wife Alex following the devastating news that their four year old son, Jack, has a condition known as Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD). This presently incurable muscle wasting disease affects 1 in 3000 boys and the charity seeks to raise awareness and fund vital research.

The charity has struck a chord with the world of rugby league and now Andy's former team mates and friends are showing their support by doing what they do best out on the field. The official team is now announced as:

"It has been just over a year since Jack was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy," explained Andy Johnson.

"We are determined to do everything we possibly can and our goal is to raise awareness and money to help Jack and other boys fight this terrible condition. We are grateful for the immense support both the rugby league family and the sporting world have shown since we launched the charity in May.

"We want to use this support in a positive way and with over 120,000 spectators expected to watch the tournament it gives Joining Jack a real opportunity to raise the profile of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. It is a real honour to be invited to take part in this event. I'd like to personally thank all the players who have stepped forward for making such a massive contribution and giving up their time to be part of what hopefully will be a winning team.

Secret weapon

The Joining Jack team also has a secret weapon up its sleeve with a very special addition to the team. Tour de France winner and Olympic Gold Medallist, Bradley Wiggins, joins the team as official water boy. A keen rugby fan Bradley could give the team a winning advantage.

"We are very proud to have Bradley Wiggins as part of the team," said Andy.

"He has shown fantastic support towards the charity since the beginning and has really helped to raise the profile. We'd like to thank Bradley for all his efforts so far and welcome him to the team"